The Best Workout Headphones

Seven Headphones That Can Outlast Even Your Most Intense Workouts

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Acquire team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life.

There are few things more bothersome than being stuck with crappy headphones. Whether it’s arriving at the gym and discovering that I grabbed the pair with only one working earbud or, even worse, sitting down for a long flight and realizing that I'll need to ask the flight attendant for those plastic over-ear contraptions covered in some sort of weird fabric, few things are more annoying. Except maybe trying to work out with headphones that keep falling out. And with so many options on the market these days, you owe it to yourself to snag a pair that will survive whatever exercise routine you've got in store.

Studies have shown that music is the perfect workout partner and can boost endurance by as much as 15 percent. Research shows that pumping in your favorite jams during a sweat session can serve as a distraction that allows you to push a little harder and a little longer. The science shows that athletes (yes, that means you) are prone to synchronizing their movements with music tempos, meaning a more upbeat song can result in a faster run or a quick cadence on your bike. That's not to mention the extra motivation the right amount of bass can provide to keep you in the zone.

But not every pair of headphones features the aesthetics, customization or functionality to help listeners dominate their health goals. Not only should you aim for receivers that accommodate your workout routine, but also ones that aid hearing and carry a long shelf life. Here’s a checklist of what to look for before racing through the electronics aisle:

What To Look For

Advanced features: Current models are supporting special modes that enhance performance, from battery conservation to playlist sharing.

Build: Lightweight or heavy-duty, any great pair of earphones can balance both forms with a slender G-factor that supports damage-free properties like IPX5.

Comfort: Every guy bears a different ear shape. Discover a model that moulds best to your hearing organ.

Earphone design: In-ear. Over-ear. Clip-on. Around the ear. Around the neck. It’s all a matter of preference.

Sound quality: Some of us desire heavy bass. Others want noise isolation. There are the few who look to tweak the driver settings for a customized listening experience.

Wires vs. wireless: The best sound normally comes from wired earphones, though wireless ones aren’t far behind. You may sacrifice some sound quality so that the cord isn't obstructing your burpees.

We Recommend

Sony 1000X Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones

Best for: Outdoor workouts

For a long time I read the word “Sony” and thought of the massive speakers my dad used to keep next to our television growing up. The 70+-year-old brand has evolved a lot since then, now making some of the best headphones on the market. These noise canceling headphones are next-level, period. Arguably, the best feature is the ability to turn down music for a conversation without even taking them off or pressing a button. If you're willing to take a call mid-workout, all you need to do is simply place one hand over the housing to instantly decrease volume. $348.00 at Amazon.com

Skullcandy Crusher Wireless

Best for: Weight lifting

At first I was hooked on these headphones because of the adjustable bass because if you're hitting the weights hard you might want a little extra bump in your headset. A small button on the left enables you to turn it up to full-on warehouse rage levels. But the real selling point on this model is the plush soft memory foam ear pads that make them so comfortable that you'll never need to worry about adjusting them during your training session. And they're stylish. The sleek design is purely sexy in black, but hits a whole other level with the grey/tan combination.$189.99 at Amazon.com

Apple AirPods

Best for: HIIT workouts

I will be the first person to admit that I had my doubts about the AirPods when they first came out, but buyer beware no more. These headphones are magic when it comes to staying put and are perfect for everything from long 13+-mile runs to burpees and box jumps. You’ll quickly get over the I-look-like-I-left-my-apartment-with-Q-Tips-in-my-ears feeling once you get a sample of the sound quality these put out. The simple double tap to talk to Siri is a nice bonus, too. $159.00 at Apple.com

BeatsX

Best for: Long runs with your favorite album

These BeatsX headphones don’t just look dope, they’ll also be your new BFF when you’re on the run. They're not completely cordless since they do wrap around your neck, but they are easy and tangle-free with a three-button remote than allows you voice access to Siri or your Google Assistant. Also, with their signature Fast Fuel feature, you can get two hours of playback when battery is low by simply plugging them in via lightning cable. They come with four different size options, which means your whole “In-ear headphones never stay put on me” excuse isn’t gonna work.$139.95 at Amazon.com

UnderWater Audio

Best for: Triathlon training

OK, this is an iPod and headphones, but it’s worthy of being an exception to the rule. Meet your solution for water workouts from Underwater Audio. What you get: A waterproofed 2GB Apple iPod Shuffle that carries 15 hours of battery life and pairs with waterproof wired headphones. Simply clip the Shuffle to your goggles or shorts and you’re on your way.$124.95 at Amazon.com

Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Over Ear Headphones

Best for: Distraction-free meditation

Sure, the price tag is a hefty one, but with a heavy grain premium cowhide and soft lambskin, these headphones from Master Dynamic are just plain gorgeous. Don’t worry, the sound quality is up there with the design. There's no reason your 10 minutes of mindful meditation can't come with a bit of luxury. Toting a signal range of four times the industry average, you can walk away from your device without disrupting your flow. And for everyday use: the 16-hour rechargeable battery will get you through a full work commute, no problem.$549.00 at MasterDynamic.com

Bose Quiet Comfort Over Ear Headphones

Best for: Traveling to and from the gym

These over-ear headphones work via Bluetooth with the option to plug in a cord for enhanced sound. Plugged in, they offer an astounding 40 hours of battery life. That means you can rock out on your way to the gym, work through your entire session and head back home and you may still get away without recharging all week. $299.99 at Amazon.com

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